UKUNYANGWA KWETYALA
Vuyo Giba
THE ATHENEAUM STUDIO 3
Music creation, collection, and photography lies in the hearts of many young people who are interested in pursuing careers in the creative industry. Vuyo Giba’s mission as a photographer has been to capture, impart, and link the bridge between young and old musicians and to consolidate the gap between diverse genres of music. By showcasing images of musicians, theatre practritioners, and creatives from Gqeberha and neighbouring cities, this exhibition aims to celebrate the local talent and history in and around Nelson Mandela Bay, and to re-establish the broader family and community context of music in the Eastern Cape.
The panel discussion aims to provide insight on the knowledge, experience, and skills needed to become a professional artist. It will also explore the importance and possibilities of partnerships and collaborations between local artists and photographers, young and old musicians. Gqeberha’s rich music history includes classic bands such as The Soul Jazzmen, a band that was formed in Gqeberha in the 60’s by historical jazz legends Duku Makasi, Dudu Pukwana, Patrick Pasha, Bra Tete Mbambisa, and Nik Moyake. Bra Barney Rachabane, Bra Hugh Masekela and Bra Winston Ngozi Mankunku are some of the many names that are linked to this band.
New Brighton and Walmer townships have and continue to produce enduring talent in the South African landscape of jazz music, highlighting the need to abandon the idea of jazz as dead and unmarketable music when compared with other genres. In fact, jazz remains influential in the making of the melody, harmony, and rhythm of music genres such as amapiano and hip hop. This is proof that jazz is embedded in our cultural memory and expression through the passage of time, from generation to generation. This body of work acknowledges the vibrant music and artistic heritage in South Africa, all of them equally important within their respective societies. The panel will consist of two younger music practitioners, Chester Summerton, and NeAhtyah Mbuyazwe, and one of the older generation, Patrick Pasha. This discussion will be accompanied by a projection of images and an exhibition.